Fourteenth International Conference on Health, Wellness & Society

Abstract

Due to the success of Anti-Retroviral Therapy, people with HIV (PLHIV) are living longer. In 2016, approximately 16% of the global HIV population comprised of older adults. Thus, the development of tailored therapeutic and prevention interventions targeting this population is a public health imperative. Research and practice on HIV have long recognized HIV-related stigma as a major impediment to prevention and intervention efforts. However, HIV-related stigma is complex and poorly understood particularly in this population, given the unique health and social challenges faced by this group. Understanding stigma and its manifestation is the first step in improving health outcomes and reducing the health equity of this population. Currently available Psychological or sociological models of HIV stigma dichotomizes stigma into either an individual or a social process. Social Work’s person-in-environment focus offers a framework that bridges the micro and the macro divide. This project utilizes Deep Ecology Theory of Arne Naess (Naess, 1972). Based on the principles of Deep Ecology, this project offers practice implications that promote a more holistic, compassionate, and interconnected approach to addressing the challenges associated with HIV among older adults.